East India Company Rama Tankat (Temple Token)
Country of Origin: India (East India Company - Imitation)
Year of Issue: 1818 (Fictitious)
Denomination: Half Anna
Composition: Copper or Brass
Brief Description
A copper-colored fantasy token featuring the Hindu deity Hanuman and the legend 'EAST INDIA COMPANY' with the date 1818.
Historical Significance
These are 'Temple Tokens' or 'Rama Tankas.' While they bear the name of the East India Company and the year 1818, they were not officially struck by the EIC for currency. They were produced in the late 19th and 20th centuries for religious purposes, often sold to pilgrims or used in puja.
Estimated Value
$1-$10 (Primarily of novelty or religious value; not a rare numismatic item)
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges; avoid chemical cleaners which can strip the artificial patina common on these tokens.
Mint Mark
None
Mintage & Rarity
Extremely common; mass-produced modern imitations.
Weight & Diameter
Variable (typically 10-15g and 25-30mm)
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
About Uncirculated (Modern manufacture with artificial aging/toning)
Obverse (Front)
The legend 'EAST INDIA COMPANY' around the rim with 'HALF ANNA' and the date '1818' inside a decorative border.
Reverse (Back)
The Hindu deity Hanuman (the monkey god) depicted in a leaping or flying pose, surrounded by a religious inscription in Devanagari script.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Most of these items are modern replicas. Genuine antique temple tokens exist but this specific '1818 EIC' type is a well-known fantasy design with no silver or gold content.
Similar Coins
Often confused with genuine East India Company 1818 coinage, which features different designs (usually a coat of arms or a balance scale).
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
If it features a Hindu deity on one side and 'East India Company' on the other, it is a religious token/fantasy piece, not legal tender. The '1818' date is a red flag for this specific design.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Numerous variations in the depiction of Hanuman and quality of lettering exist.
Created At: 2026-06-02T08:31:04.323624